Jacksonville Celebrates Black Business Month

Jacksonville Celebrates Black Business Month

August marks Black Business Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Black entrepreneurs in various industries across the United States. In Jacksonville, the community has rallied together to spotlight local Black-owned businesses, encouraging residents to shop and support these vital establishments.

Local submissions have poured in from neighborhoods around Jacksonville, highlighting a diverse array of Black businesses. These offerings range from educational services to food, arts, and wellness, showcasing the rich tapestry of talent and entrepreneurship within the Black community.

Featured Black-Owned Businesses

A list curated by community members features a variety of businesses, including:

• Academy of Scholars – Founded by Shevonica M. Howell, this private school serves grades K-12 with a focus on business literacy and history. A new second location will be opening soon at 5310 Lenox Ave, Suite 5, Jacksonville, FL 32205. More information can be found at academyofscholarsinc.org.
• Boyd’s Cleaning Company – Owned by Chantrile Boyd, this company provides general cleaning, move-out cleaning, and laundry services. Visit their Facebook page for details at facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069568630526.
• Cafe Resistance – Owned by State Representative Angie Nixon, this community hub showcases Black art, education, and activism. It is located at 5007 Soutel Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32208 and has further details at facebook.com/CafeResistanceBookstore.
• Charic Candle Co. – Founded by Charittey Scott, this business specializes in handcrafted aromatherapy candles. More information can be found at charicandleco.com.
• The Concrete Boutique – Owned by Aly Brooks, this boutique offers dried floral workshops and unique concrete planters. More details are available at theconcreteboutique.co.
• Grazecraze Charcuterie – Owned by Canedra Darby, this catering business offers large platters and grazing boxes, located at 8102 Blanding Blvd., Suite 16, Jacksonville, FL 32244. Visit grazecraze.com/jacksonville-fl-south for more information.
• Melanin Collaborative Group – This nonprofit supports Black-owned and minority-owned businesses at 822 A Philip Randolph Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32206. More info is available at melanincollaborativegroup.org.
• Nefertiti Books & Gifts – Specializing in African and African-American literature, this shop is located at 6035 Fort Caroline Road #21, Jacksonville, FL 32277. Visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/p/Nefertiti-Books-Gifts-61568122113632/.
• Truth Auto Repair – A Black woman-owned auto repair shop located at 5732 Philips Hwy Suite 2, Jacksonville, FL 32216, further details can be found at truthautorepair.com.

Community Support and Engagement

The highlight of this initiative demonstrates community support and engagement for Black entrepreneurship in Jacksonville. The collective focus is on boosting local economies by shopping at or visiting local Black-owned businesses throughout the month of August and beyond. The hope is that this awareness will encourage persistent support for Black-owned enterprises, contributing to their growth and success.

Conclusion

As August unfolds, Jacksonville residents are encouraged to explore and appreciate the vibrant array of Black-owned businesses in their community. By shopping local, individuals are not only supporting their neighbors but also fostering a thriving business environment that uplifts Black entrepreneurs and their invaluable contributions to the Jacksonville economy.